Alex stared at the catsuit, its surface gleaming with a soft rubber sheen. The attached hood, complete with perky ears, lay beside the suit, and the tail curled playfully at the end. He flexed his fingers, already feeling the anticipation of slipping his hands into the paw-shaped gloves. Today wasn’t just any day—today, everyone in his class was required to wear the exact same orange catsuit.
Alex hesitated, then pressed the button. The suit tightened gently, molding perfectly to his skin, the tail swishing as if alive. He took a deep breath and gazed at his reflection, barely recognizing the orange-clad figure with cat eyes staring back at him. "Here goes nothing," he whispered, voice muffled by the hood.
He stepped from the bus, feeling his tail flick nervously. Dozens of classmates turned to look, each indistinguishable except for their eyes glinting through the cat-shaped masks. Maya, the boldest girl in his class, bounded over, her own tail flicking with excitement. "Alex! You look amazing! I can't believe we all have to wear these all day," she exclaimed, her voice echoing through the rubber suit.
Mr. Thomlinson[/@ch_3], the teacher, also in a skin-tight orange catsuit—his hood’s ears slightly drooping.]
"Settle in, kittens," he says, grinning as his tail wiggles with every motion. The sight sends a ripple of giggles through the class. Alex feels tension ease from his shoulders as he realizes everyone is in the same boat. He finds his seat next to Maya, their paws bumping as they settle in.
Principal Harris[/@ch_4], known for her strict demeanor, appears in the doorway—her orange catsuit immaculate, whiskers drawn on the hood.]
"I hope you're all ready for a purr-fectly productive day," she jokes, surprising everyone with her humor. For the first time, Alex feels completely at ease. The oddness of the day brings everyone together, and the catsuits—once intimidating—become a symbol of unity and fun.
Alex laughs as Maya pretends to pounce, her paws batting softly at his. "Maybe we should wear these every Friday," he suggests, no longer caring how he looks, but only about the joy and camaraderie the day has brought.
